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Average Price: $467

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$300

$801+

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Description

Discover the power and versatility of the Bugera 1990, a guitar amplifier head that marries classic tube tone with modern reliability. This all-tube amp head is perfect for musicians craving that iconic British sound, yet offers the adaptability needed for today's diverse musical landscape. The Bugera 1990 features Infinium technology, a groundbreaking innovation that extends the life of your tubes up to 20 times longer, ensuring consistent performance without the ongoing cost of matched tube sets. This means more time rocking out and less time worrying about maintenance.

Designed with both stage and studio in mind, the Bugera 1990 provides pentode/triode switching for dynamic power control – crank it up to 120 watts for commanding stage presence or dial it back to 60 watts for a more nuanced, harmonic tone ideal for recording. Its classic split-channel preamp design, powered by three ECC83 tubes, lets you effortlessly switch between clean and lead tones, delivering the unmistakable punch of '90s metal or the smoothness of vintage blues.

Every detail of the Bugera 1990 is crafted for tonal precision. With a dedicated EQ section, you can sculpt your sound with bass, mid, treble, and presence controls. Integrated reverb, a versatile FX loop, and a robust footswitch complete the package, making the Bugera 1990 not just an amp head, but a comprehensive tool for sonic exploration.

Key Features:

  • Infinium technology for extended tube life and consistent tone
  • Pentode/triode power modes for versatile sound shaping
  • Clean and lead channels with independent master volume and reverb
  • 120-watt all-tube amplifier with 4 x 5881 tubes
  • Classic British tone with modern reliability
  • Vintage EQ section for precise tone-shaping
  • High-quality components and rugged construction for durability

Product specs

Brand Bugera
Model 1990 INFINIUM 2-Channel 120-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Guitar Heads
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Impedance 4 ohms
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 120
Power Tube Type 5881
Reverb Digital Reverb

FAQs

What type of music is the Bugera 1990 amp head best suited for?

The Bugera 1990 is ideal for hard rock and metal genres, offering a powerful tone reminiscent of the classic Marshall JCM 900.

How many channels does the Bugera 1990 have?

The Bugera 1990 features two channels, allowing for versatile sound options ranging from clean tones to high-gain distortion.

What type of power tubes does the Bugera 1990 use?

The Bugera 1990 uses 5881 power tubes, which contribute to its robust and dynamic sound profile.

Does the Bugera 1990 have built-in effects?

Yes, the Bugera 1990 includes built-in digital reverb, enhancing your sound with added depth and space.

Is the Bugera 1990 suitable for gigging with a drummer?

Absolutely, with 120 watts of output power, the Bugera 1990 is more than capable of handling live performances alongside a full band.

Bugera

Bugera

BUGERA 1990 Tube Amp Demo on Music Man EVH

Video thumbnail for BUGERA 1990 Tube Amp Demo on Music Man EVH by Bugera

BUGERA 1990 Tube Amp Demo on Music Man EVH

Bugera

Bugera

Video thumbnail for BUGERA 1990 Les Paul Demo by Bugera

BUGERA 1990 Les Paul Demo

Bugera

Bugera

Video thumbnail for Bugera 1990 | Playthrough Demo by ChoptonesOfficial

Bugera 1990 | Playthrough Demo

ChoptonesOfficial

ChoptonesOfficial

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile dual channels for clean and overdrive options

  • Harmonically rich and musical, great for recording leads

  • Emulates JCM900 tones with a reliable and solid sound

  • Handles pedals effectively, suitable for various setups

  • Bright tone with responsive EQ and Presence controls

  • Excellent sound quality at both low and high volumes

  • Cost-effective with no need for rebiasing during tube swaps

  • Powerful amp that's well-suited for gigs and live performances

CONS

  • Some users may find the amp's brightness excessive

  • Requires additional overdrive pedals for modern gain levels

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Bugera 1990.

User experience

  • Bugera 1990 has been reported to handle rough usage well, with no issues over five years, even when frequently loaned out to others.

    Source
  • A user acquired the Bugera 1990 due to its JCM-like sound at a lower cost, intending to use it for recording covers and occasional live performances.

    Source
  • Owners note the amplifier's high volume output, making it more suitable for loud environments than home use.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The amplifier offers interesting cleans and a notably juicy overdrive, making it a serious contender for those seeking a classic sound.

    Source
  • The Bugera 1990 features cascading gain on the lead channel, offering a sound reminiscent of the Marshall JCM 900.

    Source
  • The amp includes dual reverb controls, allowing each channel to have its own level, a feature typically found in more expensive models.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A Bugera Infinium was found locally for $200, with a recommendation to negotiate to $150, showcasing potential for good deals on used models.

    Source
  • Used Bugera 1990s can potentially be found for around $250, making it a more affordable alternative to higher-priced options like the JCM 900.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners have had power supply replacements done by a technician, indicating a possible area to monitor for reliability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Bugera 1990 is compared to the Peavey Windsor Head for a vintage Marshall sound, both being budget-friendly options with similar circuit designs.

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  • Peavey VTM series is highlighted as providing a modded JCM 800-type sound, offering a "killer" tone despite its unattractive appearance.

    Source
  • An owner traded the Bugera 1990 for a Traynor YCV40 and regretted it, preferring the Bugera's sound quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's suggested that the Bugera 1990 benefits from better tubes, with users noting improved performance after upgrades.

    Source

Build quality

  • Concerns are noted about the wiring, mainboard, pots, and tube couplers, with difficulty finding detailed specifications in the manual.

    Source
  • Early models had wire sizing and termination issues, which Bugera addressed in later versions, reducing the risk of component failure.

    Source

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